Wedding Times

Almost any reception has a bar, even if it’s only coffee, tea and juice that are being served. While this is definitely an option most weddings serve some form of alcohol and have a bar available for guests who wish to imbibe as part of the celebration.

While you first may be tempted to completely shut down the idea of an open bar, it is actually etiquette that the couple (or whoever’s paying for the reception) also pays for the drinks. However, while this is certainly tradition, there’s no reason to foot the entire bill yourself and there are several ways you can still offer your guests drinks and a good time without going broke!

An Open Bar vs. a Cash Bar

First understand the difference between an open bar and a cash bar. An open bar is just that – open. Anybody can have any kind of drink they want by simply walking up to the bar and ordering it. A cash bar however is just the opposite. If guests wish to order a drink they will need to pay for it themselves when they order the drink.

Open Cocktail Hour

Having an open cocktail hour is a great option for couples that want to save their wedding budget but still want to make guests feel comfortable. With this type of bar, the bar is open for an hour before the reception begins and guests are free to order whatever they like. Once the cocktail hour is over, the bar becomes a cash bar.

Limited Bar

When you choose a limited bar for your reception, you still pay for what is consumed but you limit what that is by only selecting a few drinks. Usually a limited bar will serve one red wine, one white wine, and a couple of different beers.

A Juice or Float Bar

If you know that no one, or at least the majority of guests at your wedding, will not be drinking, you may want to get really creative with the bar and offer something such as a juice bar or a float bar. Guests can walk up and get their own strawberry/banana smoothie, a root beer float, or a Shirley Temple! This is a great way to have a lot of fun at your reception without breaking the bank or worrying about overly drunk guests.

Beverages

The actual beverages you serve will depend on the kind of bar you choose. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t also add your own twist by creating a special drink to serve guests either during cocktail hour, the dinner, or at your reception. Name it something such as, ‘Cupid’s Brew’ and you’ve got a great addition to any wedding! You can also make your own wine with your fiancé and serve this at each place setting with a customized label. Now you’ve got a creative beverage and a wedding favor, all wrapped up in one!